Pakistan is set to modernize its power sector with financial and technical backing from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), focusing on a transition from traditional solar power to advanced battery energy storage systems (BESS). The initiative also includes support for digitization, integrated planning, and improved data governance.

The announcement came during a high-level meeting between an ADB delegation and Pakistan’s Power Division, held ahead of the anticipated visit of the bank’s vice president later this month.

Emma Xiaoqin Fan from ADB confirmed that the bank is conducting studies to assess the impact of rooftop solar and battery energy storage on the country’s electricity network. Discussions with Power Minister Awais Leghari also covered ongoing sector reforms and potential future cooperation in energy development.

ADB expressed interest in supporting initiatives across digitalization, data governance, privatization, and institutional reforms while continuing technical assistance for AMI meters.

Minister Leghari highlighted the resilience of Pakistan’s power sector despite global energy challenges, emphasizing the government’s push to increase reliance on local energy sources such as coal, hydro, and solar, aiming to keep electricity affordable for consumers.

Both parties agreed to maintain close collaboration to build a more efficient, sustainable, and technologically advanced power sector in Pakistan.